A study conducted by the Florida State University College of Business, examines the role of support in households where daily stress is common to both spouses.

Lead author Dr Wayne Hochwarter studied 400 working couples, asking about their relationship and stress levels.

He said: "Given that a lack of support from one's spouse represents a major cause of both divorce and career derailment, this research is needed to address issues that affect both home and work."

Couples with the highest levels of support at home were more satisfied with their marriage, were more likely to say that had a good relationship with their colleagues and concentrated better at work, it was suggested.

They were also less likely to say they were tired after work, be guilty about neglecting their family and were less critical of their spouse and children.